Artificial Intelligence - Bachelor Programme in Computer Science

Education

The first year is dedicated to building strong foundations in key areas like programming, mathematics, artificial intelligence (AI), and computer technology. During the Autumn term of Year 1, you will take courses in Programming and Data Structures, and Mathematics for Artificial Intelligence I, earning 15 credits (CP) in each. In the Spring term, the focus will shift to The foundations of AI and Machine Learning (ML) in Artificial Intelligence I, alongside Computer Systems I, which introduces Theoretical Computer Science. This combination equips you with essential skills for progressing into more advanced topics in the second year.

In Year 2, the curriculum deepens with more advanced courses, building on the knowledge gained in the first year. The Autumn term includes AI-supported Software Development and Information Management, and Mathematics for Artificial Intelligence II, which introduces stochastic and optimization. In the Spring term, you will engage in Advanced ML and AI in Artificial Intelligence II, expanding and deepening your understanding of ML and generative AI, as well as developing advanced computer science skills in the modules Operating Systems, Networks/Distributed Systems, and Computer Security in the course Computer Systems II.

Year 3 brings more specialized courses in AI and related fields, with a focus on practical industry integration. The Autumn term will include modules on Machine Learning and team coordination skills. You will also have opportunities to engage in industry-integrated projects, ideally in cooperation with local companies. The Spring term offers further specialization through Elective Courses, which may include topics like Reinforcement Learning, Big Data, and AI Engineering. You will also work on your Bachelor Thesis, demonstrating your understanding and application of key concepts.

Form of Instruction

The teaching methods include lectures, seminars, project work, and hand-in assignments. This is an international program offered entirely in English. You can expect scheduled activities three to five days a week. Outside of these, self-directed study is essential, amounting to a 40-hour workweek. The program encourages independence as you advance through your studies. While most exams occur in-person at Karlstad University by the end of each semester, the courses may be accessed fully remote or at Campus in Karlstad. A web-based platform complements the learning experience. However, it is important to understand that courses are streamed in real-time and are not recorded for the first iteration which means you have to attend lectures at given times and can ask questions and actively participate.

Examination

Examinations may vary by course but typically include written hand-in assignments (labs) during the term and final on-campus written exams in Karlstad at the end of each course.
Important: While labs can be completed remotely, all students, including remote learners, must be physically present at Karlstad University for each final on-campus course exam.
This structure ensures a balanced learning experience, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application while maintaining fair and reliable examinations.

Professional Contact

Throughout the study program, you will engage with industry professionals through multiple channels, including industry-related projects, mentoring programs, and guest lectures. The final year includes integrating AI knowledge with real-world applications, including potential collaborations with local businesses for project work and industry exposure.

Semester 1	ECTS credits
Programming and Data Structures (Obligatory)	15
Mathematics for Artificial Intelligence I (Obligatory)	15

Semester 2	ECTS credits
Artificial Intelligence I (Obligatory)	15
Computer systems I (Obligatory)	15

Semester 3	ECTS credits
Software Development and Information Management (Obligatory)	15
Mathematics for Artificial Intelligence II (Obligatory)	15

Semester 4	ECTS credits
Artificial Intelligence II (Obligatory)	15
Computer Systems II (Obligatory)	15

Semester 5	ECTS credits
Currently under development (Obligatory)	15
Currently under development (Obligatory)	15

Semester 6	ECTS credits
Currently under development (Obligatory)	15
Computer Science - Degree project / Bachelor´s project (Obligatory)	15

Elective course: Students are free to choose among certain alternative courses, often depending on their choice of specialisation.

Optional course: Students are free to choose any course offered at Karlstad University or at other universities. Courses listed are examples of recommended or frequently chosen courses for a specific programme.